Do I Have to Throw Out Food After a Bed Bug Infestation?

Many people are unaware of the steps they should take to clean their house after a bed bug infestation. Do not worry about clearing your pantry—bed bugs aren’t after your food!

There is a lot of false information out there concerning bed bugs and their habits. Contrary to what some believe, bed bugs rarely or never go after these things:

• Electronics
• Food crumbs
• Clothing
• Pets

Do Bed Bugs Eat Our Food?

Bed bugs sustain themselves on one thing alone: blood! This means that they won’t be found in your pantry trying to get into your food. When you have bed bugs in your home, you’ll very rarely be forced to throw away any belongings. Actually, if you have a professional exterminator assess and handle your situation, you shouldn’t even have to dispose of your mattress after a bed bug infestation!

How Long Can Bed Bugs Live Without a Food Source?

Bed bugs are resilient insects, able to live for up to an entire year without finding a source of blood to feed on. Depending on the humidity and the temperature around them, adult bed bugs can survive for anywhere between 20 and 400 days without a blood meal. They can lie dormant in your home for many months without you ever noticing them. Even without finding a blood meal, they will remain out of sight and not resort to feeding on anything else.

What Should Be Thrown Out After a Bed Bug Infestation?

You should not be concerned about bed bugs invading your pantry or trying to eat your food. When you discover a bed bug infestation in your home, don’t rush to toss your food out right away. Your first priority should be to look into professional bed bug treatment options in your area. A quick reaction to an infestation can save you from throwing out your bedding and mattress.